What are the Key Types of Non-Covalent Interactions?
Several non-covalent interactions are utilized in the functionalization of nanomaterials:
- Van der Waals Forces: These weak interactions occur between all atoms and molecules and play a significant role in the stabilization of nanomaterial assemblies. - Electrostatic Interactions: These involve attractions between positively and negatively charged entities, useful in binding charged molecules to nanomaterial surfaces. - Hydrogen Bonding: This involves the attraction between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom like oxygen or nitrogen, providing significant specificity. - π-π Stacking: This interaction occurs between aromatic rings and is particularly important for the functionalization of carbon-based nanomaterials like graphene and carbon nanotubes.
